Shires President wont contest board position

The former President of the Shires Association of New South Wales says he will not be standing for election to the board of Local Government New South Wales.

The Shires and Local Government Associations merged into one organisation in March, and Ray Donald has served as a Co-President of the interim board.

The Bogan Shire Mayor says after about 10 years involvement with the lobbying group, and three as President, he is taking a step back.

"I just felt that I've been backwards and forwards to Sydney long enough and I still want to keep on with being on Bogan Shire Council and hopefully continue the contribution I've made to that," he said.

I think I've done my best to try and steer the future of it and it's time to let someone else have a go.

"I just don't want to throw my hat in the ring to go any further with Local Government NSW.

"I think I've done my best to try and steer the future of it and it's time to let someone else have a go."

He says he hopes there'll still be people on the board who will lobby in the interests of small councils.

"Yes, it is a change that is happening and I certainly hope those who occupy those positions in the future on the new board will certainly keep the interest of small councils very much at heart, and we'll make sure they do."